Latin Excursions

Latin Excursions Mentioned on Atelier Group’s Look Website

mindgrind — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 19:31:01 +0000

Heard on the Plane: Latin Excursions’ Private Galapagos Villa

You’ve always wanted to visit the Galapagos, those mysterious South American islands where Darwin first conceptualized evolutionary theory and changed the shape of modernity. You think of palms and rocky bluffs, turtles and finches, tropical highlands soaring out of the Pacific expanse. You probably don’t think of a stunning private villa and yacht, personal naturalist guides and gourmet meals. Well think again.

Latin Excursions, boutique travel consultants, specialize in bringing you to Latin America’s most sought after destinations, no matter how remote, in style befitting the most discerning traveler. Since 2005, Latin Excursions has been included each year in Travel + Leisure magazine’s list of the 125 top travel consultants.

Santa Cruz Island, the second largest of the Galapagos, and home to Puerto Ayora, the archipelago’s largest urban center, will be your base for an entirely personalized tour. Tours of three days or longer include excursions to the lava tunnels of the Santa Cruz highlands, the turtle nurseries of Tortuga Bay, kayaking on Mansa Beach and visits to many of the Galapagos archipelago’s most picturesque and remote islands, all reached by private speedboat.

Located in Puerto Ayora, the Galapagos Villa includes five bedrooms: two master suites with king-size beds, and three suites with two double beds, each with its own bathroom. The first floor includes a fully equipped kitchen and dining room as well as a living area. Also on the property is an intimate guesthouse with two double beds and two twin beds. A rooftop terrace in the main villa is the ideal place to enjoy meals prepared by your personal in-house chef.

The two houses are set on private grounds with a Turkish bath, a whirlpool, an infinity pool and apoolside bar set amidst tropical gardens. From here you can observe the endemic wildlife that has made the region famous: blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, Darwin finches, pelicans and sea lions just as Darwin did when he first arrived in 1835 – except you’ll be doing it in style. Galapagos tourism has certainly evolved.

http://looktrvl.com/heard-on-the-plane-latin-excursions-private-galapagos-villa

Ibitipoca

Eric — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 02:43:07 +0000

The Ibitipoca Reserve is an inspiring 3000 hectare private forest preservation and sustainabilityinitiative aimed at the reforestation of native flora species and wildlife corridors.
Arriving to a property which is on a reserve of Brazil’s remaining Mata Atlantica (primary coastal forest). You can imagine in a small way what to expect when visiting a remote jungle region, but at Reserva Ibitipoca, expectations will deceive you.
Travel into authentic Brazilian history, disconnect, relax and indulge with rare levels of comfort, personal service, and delicious regional food. Where else will you find sand dunes on the mountains, surrounded by rain forest and waterfalls. This diversity is mind-blowing to say the least. Add rustic-chic style accomodations, rustic challets, horseback riding, dinner under the stars on one the sand areas, accompanied by local musicians and you will have a rare luxury experience.

Situated in the region of Minas near the Minas Gerais and Rio de Janeiro border, this area is located in a conservation area created to preserve the the native fauna and flora, water resource and geologic formations.The idea is to get immersed in close contact with nature and the local culture through the lodge’s activities. All tours are conducted with local guides from the Ibitipoca Reserve and can be done on foot or horseback.

You can choose your tours. Some of the main ones we suggest are a walk to
the Hawk Stone which is about 1500 meters in altitude where you will have a priviledged view to the Ibitipoca State Park, surrounded by watefalls. The Grotto of the Rising sun is another attraction with an area that shelters many wildlife. The Water tour is another main atraction on the “Engenho’s Farm”. This is a waterfall with natural pools formed by coca-cola color water. The reddish and transparent water is due to the decomposition of organic material of the plants and presence of iron compounds. These waterfalls are formed by waters that slip between rocks and crevices, and give rise to the Black Lake, the Engenho’s Waterfall, and to the pools – small wells perfect for swimming.
The Reserve is a long term restoration project by a local Brazilian visionary who is interested in offering a different approach to eco-travel and in rare wildlife type escapes. As said in the founder’s own words: ” This is my pet project which summarizes my life long passion for nature, conservation, community involvement with tourism, and leaving a reserve to be enjoyed by our future generations.”
For more information, please contact one of our travel professionals at

http://www.latinexcursions.com/contact/

Update on visiting Bariloche in 2011 and 2012

Eric — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 00:49:33 +0000

UPDATE ON BARILOCHE

Following the press release sent by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 (company in charge of the operation of Bariloche Airport), Bariloche’s Airport will be closed from October 24th to December 20th, 2011, due to the renovation works on the runway and taking advantage of the suspension of its operation since the eruption of Puyehue Volcano in Chile on June 4th.
The company has announced that work will be done on the runway and also the airport’s building will be updated. They plan to add an innovative irrigation system on both sides of the runway (the first of its kind in Argentina), which will also help to mitigate the effects of the ash or the dust from the Patagonian steppe. Access to the airport and other surrounding roads will also be upgraded. Besides the renovation of the runway, work will also include platforms, new signposting and markers among other upgrades.

During this period, airlines will continue offering the service to Bariloche, operating through alternative airports. Aerolineas Argentinas operates through Esquel (EQS) and LAN operates through Neuquen (NQN). From these airports, they provide ground transportation to Bariloche’s bus terminal. Please take into account that these transfers are only included in the airfare of any ticket booked to BRC (Bariloche). Airlines have informed us that they will extend this service up to December 20th, but we suggest that you check the status of this service with each airline at the time of booking. Frequencies and itineraries along with rates are available on each airline’s web page as well as on the GDS (Reservations System).

An interesting option for guests is booking flights directly to alternative airports disregarding the transfers offered by the airlines, and having Latin Excursions arange private transfers from these alternative airports directly to your hotel, taking advantage of the scenic roads and some interesting visits that can be done along the way; this will also save time. In this way, transfer from Esquel takes 3 hours and from Neuquén, 5. In case you need assistance with this arrangement, we will be very happy to help you. We highly recommend this alternative.

Another reccommendation is, instead of a private transfer, renting a car at the rent-a-car offices located in Esquel or Neuquen (Hertz, for instance, has offices at both airports as well as a desk at the Hotel). Guests may book this service for very convenient prices with unlimited mileage and full insurance. Then you can keep the car for sightseeing on their own while staying in the Lake District.
Also, Lake Crossing Tour from and to Chile (Puerto Varas) is operating normally and was not affected by the eruption of the Volcano.

Regarding the Llao Llao, the hotel is keeping its normal operation except for the fact that the Los Césares Restaurant and Lobby Moreno Bar are currently closed. Meals are being offered at the Patagonia Restaurant and Winter Garden.
The 18 hole Golf Course is open, as well as the Spa, Nahuelito´s Kids Club, and the swimming pools, and the recreational program is also being offered.

Bariloche has returned to normality, regarding hotels, restaurants, schools, shopping, tours, excursions, lake tours, etc. To sum up, the airport operation is expected to be normal again by Dec. 20th, just in time for the Summer Season. Nevertheless, please consider that as long as the Puyehue volcano continues its activity, the operation of this airport will be subject to atmospheric conditions.
For further planning questions, please contact one of our travel professionals at Latin Excursions.

Discovering Venezuela

Jorge — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 19:35:15 +0000

16 Day Luxury Tour

Spend 16 days in exploring Venezuela’s stunning natural landscapes and colonial villages on this private vacation tour. From the Venezuelan Andes and high altitude villages, to the endless Los Llanos plains with diverse wildlife, to the legendary Angel Falls and beautiful Caribbean Los Roques Islands, you’ll have a memorable, unique adventure discovering Venezuela.

It’s an exciting tour itinerary in a country that’s can be described as “ off the beaten path” for many travelers, from spotting the giant Orinoco caiman and pink dolphins in the rivers of Los Llanos, to visiting Andean villages, the majestic Angel Falls and exploring the lush forests of Canaima, to beach adventures in Los Roques.

Throughout you’ll experience flawless service from bilingual professional guides, to drivers, hosts and from Latin Excursions staff as we help you plan your trip from start to finish, customizing details to match your travel preferences.

Highlights:

Visits to hidden villages set high in the Andes
Spot amazing wildlife like ocelots, pink dolphins, anacondas and more in Los Llanos
Visit hidden waterfalls in the Gran Sabana
Private helicopter flight over gigantic tepuys in the Gran Sabana
Canoe rides in traditional dugouts in Canaima National Park
Local guides offer more insight into local culture and environment
Experience the legendary Angel Falls
Explore the Canaima National Park region
Private full-day boat and guide to travel around the Los Roques archipelago
Ideal for families, couples and small groups
Tailor made experiences
Private travel throughout Venezuela

Venezuela Highlights

Jorge — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 18:36:23 +0000

8 Day Luxury Tour

Itinerary Overview

Spend eight days in two of Venezuela’s most beautiful natural landscapes, the Canaima National Park and Los Roques Archipelago on your own, private, vacation tour. It’s an exciting itinerary in a country that’s off the beaten path for most travelers, but with visits to some Venezuela’s most stunning areas – from seeing the majestic Angel Falls and exploring the lush forests of Canaima, to beach adventures in Los Roques – you won’t be disappointed.

Throughout, you’ll experience flawless service from bilingual professional guides, to drivers, hosts and from Latin Excursions staff as we help you plan your vacation from start to finish, customizing details to match your travel preferences.

Highlights:

Canoe rides in traditional dugouts in Canaima National Park
Local guides offer more insight into local culture and environment
Experience the legendary Angel Falls
Explore the Canaima National Park region
Private full-day boat and guide to travel around the Los Roques archipelago
Ideal for families, couples and small groups
Tailor made experiences

Featured Galapagos Cruises

webadminx — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 19:08:50 +0000

Smaller boats:

Integrity:

The M/Y Integrity was introduced in 2005 and is a 141-foot luxury yacht customized to carry 16 adventurers in full luxury. This yacht is one of our favorites and we suggest it for those looking to explore the Galapagos in a smaller group – the ideal size for exploration – but interested in having all the details of luxury. This program also offers some of the top guides in the Galapagos. Click here

Nina:

One of the newest additions to the islands, the 16-passenger M/C Nina catamaran is a spacious, stable way to travel the Galapagos Islands in style. The catamaran style makes the Nina less rocky for seasick prone passengers. Each large cabin has picture windows and a private balcony. It’s an excellent option for small groups or coupless. Click here

Athala II:

A sister to the Nina, the M/C Athala II offers private balconies for Main Deck cabins, as well as stylish décor and impeccable service. The Athala does offer both short and long cruises, which make it perfect for travelers interested in experiencing the Galapagos in a small boat, but without time for a week cruise. It’s an excellent option for small groups or couples. Click here

Mary Anne:

Just nine years old, this romantic sailboat takes on the waves majestically under full sail or motor power. For the true sailors-at-heart, the raise-the-sails moment is an exhilarating experience. With ample decks that provide splendid space to relax with friends, take in the sights or enjoy the breeze, she can accommodate up to 16 guests. For more detailed information on this vessel, click here.

Mid-sized boats:

Eclipse:

The Eclipse preserves the smaller boat atmosphere, including the attention to detail and personal service you would expect, yet offers special features such as an al fresco dining area for all 48 passengers, a naturalist guide for every 12 passengers and a library/video room. Additionally, the Eclipse has amenities such as a climate-controlled pool, a poolside bar, a souvenir shop, an observation deck and an air-renewal system. The Eclipse has an infirmary with an M. D. on board at all times. For more detailed information on this vessel, click here.

Islander:

This 48-passenger luxury yacht offers guests an intimate Galapagos experience, with the amenities and high class service discerning travelers expect. The cruise style focuses on the natural history of the Galapagos Islands, and because of the Islander’s affiliation with National Geographic, often has photographers on board to assist with photography tips and lead photography-focused excursions. Relax in the evening at the onboard spa; there is also a fitness center. The Islander includes mainland services in Quito or Guayaquil and cannot be reserved as cruise-only. For more detailed information on this vessel, click here.

Large expedition cruises:

Endeavour:

For those interested in a week-long luxury large cruise option, the Endeavour is the boat for you! This 100-passenger luxury vessel offers guests the best of everything – service, itinerary, accommodations, and special on board touches like a fitness center and floating massage table. And, for photography enthusiasts, the Endeavour works with National Geographic, and often has professional photographers on board to lead excursions and workshops that focus on photography. The Endeavour includes mainland services in Quito or Guayaquil and cannot be reserved as cruise-only. For more detailed information on this vessel, click here.

Explorer:

The Explorer is an elegant motor-vessel with classic modern lines, blending comfort, adventure and environmental preservation in the Galapagos Islands. Built in Italy in 1990 with an overall length of 293 feet reaching 17 knots this fully air-conditioned ship offers 50 suites, each with TV, VCR, mini bar, satellite communication. Suites average 250 square feet with and offer private baths with marble vanities and personal hairdryers. Beds can be configured as two twins or one queen and also offer a small sitting area. Telephones in cabins are available for either national or international calls. For more detailed information on this vessel, click here.

For any additional boats, please visit www.galapagosexcursions.net

Galapagos Villa + Isabela Island

webadminx — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 18:29:30 +0000

Day 1 – Welcome to Quito

Arrival to Quito and meet and greet; transfer to hotel, either a boutique luxury option in the colonial section of the city, or a large luxury property in the modern area of Quito.

Meals not included.

Day 2 – Middle of the World

You’ll have a panoramic view of the Guapulo Valley, modern Quito, and the famed UNESCO World Heritage colonial sector. In the colonial area you’ll see Independence Square, San Francisco and La Compañía cathedrals and Chapter Hall; end at Panecillo Hill for spectacular views of Quito and the surrounding Andes. You’ll also visit the Equator Line Monument and Ethnographic Museum, and the nearby Pululahua volcanic crater. Other options include art galleries or the archaeology museum. Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 3 – To Galapagos

Transfer to the airport for check-in assistance and Galapagos flight (2-½ hours). Airport meet and greet and assistance with charter flight connection to Isabela Island. Isabela is the largest island in the Galapagos, and boasts a wide variety of ecosystems, ranging from lava fields to white-sand beaches, imposing volcanoes and mangrove forests. The sleepy town of Puerto Villamil is still a relatively unknown destination in the Galapagos, and offers a peaceful atmosphere right on a beautiful beach that often is home to marine iguanas, ghost crabs and a handful of surfers.

Spending two or three days on Isabela Island is a fantastic way to start a Galapagos adventure with your group, and you’ll have the chance to experience some areas of the Galapagos that many visitors never see.

Airport meet and greet and transfer to your luxury beachfront hotel located on the outskirts of Puerto Villamil. This afternoon you’ll have your first Galapagos experience: snorkeling with white-tipped reef sharks at Las Tintoreras.

All meals included.

Day 4 – Sierra Negra Volcano Hike

Today you’ll have a full day hike or horseback ride up to the rim of Sierra Negra Volcano. This volcano dominates the landscape from Puerto Villamil, and has one of the world’s largest calderas. There is also the option to continue hiking to Volcano Chico, where you can feel the heat of the fumaroles of this very active volcano. The afternoon will be at leisure to relax at the hotel, enjoy the beach, or explore town. All meals included.

Day 5 – To Puerto Ayora

Transfer to the airport for your charter flight to Baltra Island; meet and greet and private transfer to the villa on Santa Cruz Island.

Villa Galapagos is an exclusive oceanfront residence with modern architecture, three ocean view bedrooms, an infinity pool, complete amenities and personalized services. It caters to the most discerning traveler – one who wishes to explore the Enchanted Islands at his or her leisure and in the utmost comfort.

The villa program comes with a private yacht and naturalist guide. Itineraries can be customized around your preferences and last from three to ten nights, or longer.

All meals included.

Days 5-9 – Galapagos

Five days of exciting Galapagos adventures with your private guide on your chartered yacht.

You’ll have two full-day island visits, along with adventures around Santa Cruz Island. Explore the Enchanted Islands with a private speedboat during the day and return to the comforts of your own villa by night. Traveling on your own schedule you’ll have the flexibility to stop when a school of dolphins or sea turtles is spotted, so you can jump in and experience one of those magical Galapagos moments!

The program is comparable to a luxury yacht program; past families and groups have found the Villa Galapagos to be the best option for experiencing the Galapagos Islands in the most exclusive fashion.

Possible visits and activities include seeing giant tortoises in the lush Highlands, visiting the famed Charles Darwin Station, exploring lava tunnels, snorkeling with playful sea lions, visiting Bartolomé Island for excellent snorkeling and panoramic views, North Seymour Island for the comical blue-footed booby, and more!

All meals are prepared by your private chef, and a concierge and service staff keep things running smoothly at the villa. After a long day of exploration and adventure, arrange a massage at the villa, and relax under the stars with a gourmet meal and passionfruit cocktail – a Galapagos specialty!

All meals included.

Day 9 – To Quito

Transfer to airport, check-in assistance and VIP lounge access for Quito flight. Arrival meet and greet; to hotel and evening transfer for your group to a restaurant of your choosing for a farewell dinner.

Breakfast included.

Day 10 – To Home

Transfer to airport and check-in assistance for flight home, or on to other adventures.

Breakfast included.

From: US$ 6,500 per person, depending on number of guests and nights at the villa; includes internal airfare.

Ecuador Highlights

webadminx — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:21:45 +0000

Itinerary Overview

This adventure takes you to three of Ecuador’s top regions: the Amazon jungle, Galapagos Islands and Andes Highlands.

Begin your private vacation tour with a relaxing two night stay at a hacienda in the Andes outside Quito, experiencing the local culture and traditions. Then, head on a jungle excursion in an eco-lodge in the Napo region, just a short flight from Quito and one of the most biologically diverse areas on the planet.Then, end the trip with a Galapagos Islands cruise or land based adventure filled with close encounters with unique wildlife, snorkeling and hiking.

For small groups, couples or families, this private vacation tour is the perfect mix of outdoor activity, cultural exploration and natural history. It’s an exciting way to experience the varied cultures and landscapes Ecuador has to offer. Throughout, experience flawless service from bilingual professional guides, drivers, hosts and Latin Excursions staff as we help you plan your trip from start to finish.

If you’re looking for: traditional haciendas, Ecuadorian cuisine, mixture of natural wonders and local culture, wildlife viewing, Galapagos wildlife, snorkeling

Extend your trip: in Peru to visit Machu Picchu.

Highlights:

Stay in historic haciendas
Dine on traditional Ecuadorian cuisine at family-friendly restaurants
Explore vibrant local markets
Explore the rich sights and sounds of pristine jungle from the comfort of an Amazon lodge
Visit a parrot clay lick to view spectacular wildlife such as Giant Otters
View the spectacular wildlife in the unparalleled Amazonian rainforest of Yasuní National Park
Snorkel with playful sea lions and other marine life
Learn about Galapagos’ unique flora, fauna and geology
Ideal for families
Tailor made experiences

ITINERARY DETAILS:

Day 1 – Quito

Arrival to Quito and airport meet and greet; transfer to your hotel in either modern or historic Quito.

Day 2 – Andes

Drive with your private guide to the Andes north or south of Quito, with visits en route to local markets and villages. Overnight at a traditional hacienda in the beautiful Andes Highlands.

All meals included.

Day 3 – Andes

Excursions around the hacienda like hiking, horseback riding, visits to local villages, and more.

All meals included.

Day 4 – Quito

Return to Quito, stopping on the way for lunch at a hacienda for traditional Ecuadorian cuisine.

Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 5 – Amazon

Airport transfer and check-in assistance for flight to Coca (25 minutes), on the edge of the Amazon. Transfer to the airport for a 25-minute flight to Coca. Then take a motorized canoe down the Napo River and a dugout canoe along a blackwater creek to the lake and lodge. With Rich terra firma rainforest, this area is filled with wildlife, including the golden-mantled tamarin, found only on the on this side of the Napo area. You might even spot a Jaguar or a Tapir! Accommodations are comfortable, and the perfect base for adventures in the jungle with your bilingual guide and local guide.

All meals included.

Days 6 & 7 – Amazon Activities

Spend four days in the Amazon, exploring the jungle with a bilingual guide and local guide for the excursions. Activities include visiting a parrot clay lick, night walks, canoe trips, piranha fishing, bird watching, wildlife walks and canopy walks. From a canopy platform located near the lodge, experience the parallel world of the tree-tops. The 120 foot platform is built within the canopy of a huge, emergent tree and offers spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife.

All meals included.

Day 8 – Quito City Tour

Return to Quito and transfer to hotel. Afternoon panoramic Quito city tour.

Breakfast included.

Day 9 – Galapagos

Fly to the Galapagos Islands this morning to begin your exciting cruise or villa stay!

All meals included.

Days 10-12 – Galapagos Adventure

Spend five days and four nights cruising the Galapagos Islands on your luxurious, family-friendly yacht, catamaran or sailboat (weeklong programs are also available). You’ll have days full over island adventure, with hikes and plenty of snorkeling to get up close and personal with amazing Galapagos wildlife like blue-footed boobies, sea lions, marine iguanas, and giant tortoises! Your bilingual naturalist guide will lead you on these daily excursions.

We have personally selected the finest yachts and sailboats to choose from based on the quality of guides and safety and environmental standards. If you prefer a smaller yacht or to charter a yacht, we would suggest boats such as the Eric/Flamingo/Letty, Nina or Athala II. If you are seeking a sailboat the Alta or Mary Anne are excellent options. Mid-sized yachts like the Eclipse and Evolution welcome families, and the Explorer and Legend are great larger cruise vessels. Please ask one of our Galapagos specialists to best choose the right boat for you and your family.

All meals included.

Day 13 – Quito

After your last visit, return to the airport for your flight to mainland Ecuador. Airport meet and greet and transfer to your hotel.

Breakfast included.

Day 14 – To Home

Transfer to airport and check-in assistance for flight home, or on to other adventures.

Breakfast included.

Peru: Inca Journey and Delfin Luxury Amazon Cruise

webadminx — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 08:26:22 +0000

Itinerary Overview

Peru is an exciting country, home to ancient cultures, a vibrant local culture, breathtaking scenery and one of the most diverse areas of the Amazon rainforest. You’ll have the chance to combine the history and culture of the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Cusco with cosmopolitan Lima and the wild natural beauty of the Amazon rainforest in one vacation experience.

After exploring the history of Lima and continuing on to the Cusco area, including Machu Picchu, you’ll spend five days on the M/V Delfin for an exciting journey into the depths of the Pacaya Samiria Reserve in the Amazon. Throughout the trip expect flawless service from bilingual professional guides, drivers, hosts and from Latin Excursions staff as we help you plan your trip from start to finish, customizing details to match your travel preferences.

If you’re looking for: delicious cuisine, cosmopolitan city with top museums, local culture, vibrant markets, Inca ruins, hiking, cruising the Amazon River, and excellent rainforest wildlife viewing.

Extend your trip: within Peru to Lake Titicaca and high altitude communities built on reed islands or time spent on the Peruvian coast at charming resorts; or in Ecuador with a luxury Galapagos cruise.

Highlights:

Exclusive Lima visit
Bargain at colorful markets in the Sacred Valley
Hike the one day Inca Trail
See legendary Machu Picchu at sunrise
Explore history of lively Cusco
Cruise the Amazon River
Excellent on board gastronomy and service
Spot exotic freshwater pink dolphins
Activities like piranha fishing, bird watching and visits to local villages
Panoramic sunrise and sunset views on board

Day 1 – Welcome to Lima
Arrival to Lima and airport meet and greet; transfer to hotel with luxury, boutique and deluxe options available.

Day 2 – Lima city tour
Visit pre-Hispanic and colonial sites with your erudite guide, as well as the Larco Herrera Museum. Here the museum’s curator gives an insider’s look at the stunning collection. Enjoy cocktails at the elegant Casa Aliaga, and a special dinner reservation at one of Lima’s top restaurants.
Breakfast included.

Day 3 – Sacred Valley
Morning transfer to the airport and check-in assistance for Cusco flight. Airport meet and greet and transfer to Sacred Valley, which is at a lower altitude, making for easier acclimatization. Visit the nearby village of Pisac to explore the impressive ruins and terracing overlooking the valley; a hike takes you down from the ruins and into the village, known for its handicrafts market (Sunday and Thursday). After the visit dine on Peruvian delicacies with a gourmet picnic.
Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 4 – Olltaytambo & Chinchero
This morning visit Ollantaytambo, an attractive village with a hillside fortress. Lunch will be at Hacienda Huayo Ccari, owned by the region’s oldest land-owning family; treat yourself to a several-course meal as you enjoy panoramic valley views. After lunch visit Chinchero, where you’ll have a private demonstration from one of the area’s finest weavers.
Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 5 – Inca Trail
Transfer to Ollantaytambo for the Vistadome train to Aguas Calientes. The ride is approximately two hours, mainly through cloud forest scenery. Disembark after 30 minutes and with your guide begin the One Day Inca Trail trek. You will carry only your daypack and boxed lunch. Cross a hanging bridge to then approach the small but interesting Inca archaeological complex of Cachabamba. After a brief visit of this site you will begin a three to four hour ascent to the ruins of Wiñay Wayna, an important Inca spiritual site, and one of the loveliest of all Inca ruins. At this point the trail joins with the main Inca Trail; from here you will be walking on Inca pavement. Cut across the ridge above Machu Picchu to finally reach Intipunku or the Gate of the Sun, where the trail winds downhill into the citadel. You will then take a half hour bus ride down to your hotel.
All meals included.

Day 6 – Machu Picchu
Visit the ruins to watch the morning unfold; you’ll a full day to explore areas like the Inca Bridge or Huayna Picchu. Return to Cusco by Hiram Bingham luxury train in late afternoon. Pre-dinner cocktails will be served in the bar, and later a four-course dinner in the dining cars.
All meals included.

Day 7 – Cusco
Begin the day with a walking tour of Cusco. Follow narrow streets filled with Inca stonework to sites like the Temple of the Sun (Korikancha), the Plaza de Armas to see the juxtaposition of Inca and Colonial architecture, and La Merced or San Francisco cathedrals. In the afternoon visit Cusco’s best shopping areas for high quality handicrafts.
Breakfast included.

Day 8 – To Amazon
Airport transfer and check-in assistance for late afternoon Iquitos flight (2-½ hours) to begin your Amazon cruise. On the Aqua, you’ll become one of a handful of seasoned world travelers to visit the remote Pacaya Samiria Reserve, a five million acre reserve roughly the size of a Central American country. A world of flora and fauna await you in this wonderful experience. Please note: this is the high water itinerary. Excursions are different during the June-November low water season. Five day cruises begin on Wednesday.
Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 9 – Belluda Caño and Dorado River
This morning explore the black water Belluda Stream, within the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve borders. You’ll be able to spot colorful birds and troops of different monkeys, as well as the iridescent blue morpho butterfly. In the afternoon visit the El Dorado River of the chance to spot gray and pink river dolphins, and the chance to swim with the dolphins.
All meals included.

Day 10 – Atun Poza Lake and Pacaya River
This morning cruise to lake Atun Poza, where you’ll see birdlife like egrets, herons, hawks and neotropical cormorants. You’ll also have the chance to explore black water lagoons linked to the lake where you’ll see colorful insects. In the afternoon you’ll reach the Pacaya River, the heart of the reserve. Here you’ll be in the most pristine wilderness area, with the chance to see monkeys, spectacular scenery, sunset over the flooded jungle, and birds. As night falls you’ll have a night safari in search of nigh herons, spectacled owls, fish bats, frogs, and giant caimans.
All meals included.

Day 11 – Caro Curahuayte Lagoon and Jungle Hike
This morning you’ll have a fishing expedition in search of piranhas at Caro Curahuayte Lagoon, where during the rainy season trees flower and bear fruit at the same time. This afternoon you’ll visit the riverside Yanallpa community where you’ll learn about local traditions and agricultural production in the jungle. Tonight is your farewell dinner.
All meals included.

Day 11 – Yarapa River and Puerto Miguel and to Lima
This morning you’ll have your last visit to Puerto Miguel village to learn about their culture, traditions and folklore. Continue sailing along the Amazon, and after lunch you’ll disembark at Nauta for the land transfer back to Iquitos for your flight to Lima. Once in Lima, transfer to your hotel. Please note: Five day cruise passengers disembark today (Sunday). Four day passengers embark today.
Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 12 – Lima and Home
Full day with guide and driver to explore sites of interest to you in Lima. Late afternoon transfer to airport for your international flight home.
Breakfast included.

Marvels of Peru

webadminx — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 08:07:06 +0000

Marvels of Peru

Itinerary Overview

Explore Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, and considered the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Western Hemisphere in this eight day vacation tour to visit the marvels of the Inca Empire. You will explore amazing Inca ruins, enchanting villages, vibrant markets and stunning landscapes, with the Machu Picchu citadel, one of your private vacation highlights. Throughout your tour, experience flawless service from bilingual professional guides, drivers, hosts and Latin Excursions staff as we help you plan your trip from start to finish.

If you’re looking for: Inca highlights combined with local culture, vibrant markets, top guides, and delicious cuisine in a cosmopolitan city with top museums.

Extend your trip: within Peru to Lake Titicaca and high altitude communities built on reed islands, the Amazon rainforest for a luxury cruise or lodge stay, or time spent on the Peruvian coast at charming resorts; or in Ecuador with a luxury Galapagos cruise.

Highlights:

Exclusive Lima city tour and dining experiences
Private experiences in Sacred Valley
Luxury Hiram Bingham train to Machu Picchu
Sunrise at Machu Picchu
Insight into local culture and traditions
Ideal for couples and small groups
Tailor made experiences

Day 1 – Lima
Arrival to Lima and airport meet and greet; transfer to your hotel. Luxury, boutique and deluxe options are available.

Day 2 – Lima Exploration
Visit pre-Hispanic and colonial sites with your erudite guide, as well as the Larco Herrera Museum. Here the museum’s curator gives an insider’s look at the stunning collection. Enjoy cocktails at the elegant Casa Aliaga, and a special dinner reservation at one of Lima’s top restaurants.
Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 3 – Pisac
Morning transfer to the airport and check-in assistance for Cusco flight. Airport meet and greet and transfer to Sacred Valley, which is at a lower altitude, making for easier acclimatization. Visit the nearby village of Pisac to explore the impressive ruins and terracing overlooking the valley; a hike takes you down from the ruins and into the village, known for its handicrafts market. After the visit dine on Peruvian delicacies with a gourmet picnic; continue on to your hotel.
Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 4 – Ollantaytambo and Chinchero
This morning visit Ollantaytambo, an attractive village with a hillside fortress. Lunch will be at Hacienda Huayo Ccari, owned by the region’s oldest land-owning family; treat yourself to a several-course meal as you enjoy panoramic valley views. After lunch visit Chinchero, where you’ll have a private demonstration from one of the area’s finest weavers.
Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 5 – Machu Picchu
Transfer to the train station for the Hiram Bingham luxury train to Aguas Calientes for a two-hour ride through cloud forest. Your guide will take you through the ruins; lunch will be à la carte at Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge.
All meals included.

Day 6 – Machu Picchu
Visit the ruins to watch the morning unfold; you’ll a full day to explore areas like the Inca Bridge or Huayna Picchu. Return to Cusco by train in late afternoon. Pre-dinner cocktails will be served in the bar, and later a four-course dinner in the dining cars. Transfer to your hotel.
Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 7 – Cusco Exploration
Begin the day with a walking tour of Cusco. Follow narrow streets filled with Inca stonework to sites like the Temple of the Sun (Korikancha), the Plaza de Armas to see the juxtaposition of Inca and Colonial architecture, and La Merced or San Francisco cathedrals. In the afternoon visit Cusco’s best shopping areas for high quality handicrafts.
Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 8 – Lima
Airport transfer and check-in assistance for Lima flight; airport meet and greet and full day of driver and guide services for explore Barranco, Lima’s art district. Transfer to the airport for your international flight home this evening.
Breakfast included.